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COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT 




HISTORICAI^ T^IjXV 



BY 



Hei^an Bi^eunligh. 

Published by 

HERMAN BRAEUNLICH & CO. 

86 Fulton Street, N. Y. 



Copyrighted 1904 

HERMAN BRAEUNLICH 

New York. 



3^' 



i Two Oopies iisceiyed I ^ n 

JAN 1,0 1905 



IS 



S 



TMP92-008689 



PERSONS REPRESENTED 

King Ferdinand of Spain appears Act I — Scene II. 
Columbus appears Act I — Scene II-VIII-IX; Act II — 

Scene I-V-VII; Act III— Scene VII; Act IV— 

Scene IV-V-VI-VII. 
Fernando, Diego, boys, sons of Columbus, appear Scene 

IX. 
Bartholomew Columbus (Adelantado) appears Act II — 

Scene V-VII ; Act III— Scene II-III-V-VII. 
Brothers of Columbus. 
Diego Columbus appears Act II — Scene I ; Act IV — 

Scene I. 
Ojedo appears Act I — Scene I-III-IV-V ; Act II — Scene 

VI-VII. 
Penelo appears Act I — Scene I. 
Juan de Soria appears Act I — Scene I-VI-IX. 
Bishop Fonseca appears Act I — Scene VI-VII-VIII. 
Petro Margarite appears Act II — Scene I-II-IV. 
Friar Boyle appears Act II — Scene I-II-IV. 
Petro Coronel, Sanchez Carvajel, Juan de Luxon appear 

Act II — Scene I. 
Miguel Diaz appears Act II— Scene III-VI-VII ; Act III 

Scene IV; Act IV— Scene II-III. 
Dieste, Rodriques appears Act II — Scene III Cavaliers. 
Firmin Cedo (Gov. Assayer) appears Act II — Scene III 

Apothecary and a Surgeon. 
Caonabo Cazique appears Act II — Scene VII. 



Behechio Cazique, brother to Anacaona, appears Act III 

Scene I-II-III. 
Miguel Ballester, commander of fort, appears Act III — 

Scene VI. 
Roldan (Alcalde Major) appears Act HI — Scene VI. 
Bobadilla ((Governor) appears Act IV — Scene I-IV. 
Alonzo de Villejo appears Act IV — Scene VI-VII. 
Ovando (Governor) appears Act IV — Scene VIII. 

Soldiers, Sailors, Priests, Indians, Cavaliers, Indian 
Maidens and Populace. 

Queen Isabella appears Act I — Scene II-III-IV. 

Inez de Plerera, lady in waiting appears Act I — Scene III- 

IV-V. 
Anacaona Cazique, wife of Caonabo, appears Act III — 

Scene I-III-V; Act IV— Scene III-VIII-IX. 
Caona, daugter of Anacaona, appears Act III — Scene IV; 

Act IV— Scene II-III. 



COLUMBUS 

Historical Play in Four Acts 



Act I. Scene I. — Time April, 1493. 
Street in Barcelona. 

Enter DON OJEDA, DON PINELO. 

OJEDA — Whither in such haste, friend Pinelo? 

PINELO— I'm bound for the city gates, to help receive 
befittingly the great Admiral, who's returned from beyond 
the ocean seas with wondrous discoveries. 

OJEDA — Thither also leads my way, so let us go in 
company to shorten time. Ah ! there comes the bishop's 
worthy scribe ; he looks not joyous on this festive day. 

Enter JUAN DE SORJA. 

What makes you look so glum, when all the town is 
full of joy and expectation to see the great discoverer and 
the wonderful things he brings from beyond the ocean 
sea? 

SORIA—lt is just this that piques me, that such great 
preparations are making to honor a foreigner; a mere 
Captain of a Caravel, a dago from Genoa, think of it, is 



6 COLUMBUS. 

to be received in state by their Majesties of Castile, as if 
he were of royal blood and lineage ; were he a born hidalgo 
of Spain, 'twere different. 

OJEDA — Yes ! but no hidalgo of Spain has rendered 
such signal service to the Crown of Castile as to present 
it with a new realm, a whole new world 'tis said ; so let 
us rejoice, and reap the benefit of his find. I for one 
incline to try my hand at it. Already do I hear the peo- 
ple shout his coming ; lets off to the parade. Exeunt. 

ACT I. SCENE IT. 
Barcelona, before the Royal Palace, where the thrones 
are placed in public view ; under a rich canopy of brocade 
of gold, the King and Queen are seated, with prince 
Juan beside them, surrounded by courtiers. Enter Col- 
umbus attended by hidalgos. Six Indians, painted in 
their savage fashion and decorated with their national 
ornaments of gold, bearing products of their country fol- 
low, the hidalgos open to either side. Columbus, stately 
and of commanding person, venerable by his gray hair, 
steps to the throne (as he approaches the sovereigns rise) 
bending his knees to kiss their hands ; the King raises him 
most graciously. 

KING — It pleases us beyond expression, Don Colum- 
bus, our valiant Admiral of the Ocean sea and Viceroy of 
the Islands in the Indies, to welcome you home in our 
realm. We beg that you be seated in our presence to re- 
count the incidents of your voyage and describe the lands 
discovered for our crown. Our Queen, I ween, will lend 
as eager ear to your recital as ourselves. 



COLUMBUS. 7 

QUEEN— Oh in my orisons have I prayed for the 
safe return of yourself and fleet ; oft has doubt possessed 
my faint heart, that God in his wisdom would hear my 
supplication. Now that 'tis granted beyond all expecta- 
tions, I fain would listen to the wonders of the new world, 
by your lips imparted. 

COLUMBUS— With your Majesties' leave I'll give 
account, as brief as truthful, of the wonders I have seen 
and lived through. 

On September 6, in the morning, your fleet set sail 
from the Island of Gomera. Shaping my course due 
west, into the trackless ocean, leaving thus behind us the 
last promontory of the known world, to seek and find the 
new, under God's Omnipotent guidance. Through storm 
and 'calm, through weather fair and foul, we still pressed 
forward, westward, until October 12, first land was de- 
scried—an island, by the natives Guanahane height— San 
Salvador, I gave it name, and took possession, planting 
the Royal standard of Castile, to your crown's immortal 
fame. If here the air was enchanting, fragrant and 
balmy, the ocean clear of transparent blue, on Cuba's 
shore, which after three days' sail was reached, all bore 
a still' more magnificent hue, like flower beds in a garden. 
We passed by many a stately isle, abundant with flowers, 
fruit and trees of goodly size; but Cuba above all, like a 
pearl of priceless worth from the Ocean arises, clad in 
verdure fresh, decked with tropical flowers, dcHcious 
fruit and trees of ancient growth, that like gigantic pil- 
lars rise, majestic supports of the azure skies ; the sweet 



8 COLUMBUS. 

song of birds was wafted to the ships on perfume laden 
breezes. 

For a hundred leagues or more we coasted along this 
enchanting shore. When by Indian guides informed of 
the richness of Bahia or Hayti, I laid for this my course 
and entered a spacious harbor on the 6th of December, 
naming it St. Nicholas. This island of a goodly king- 
dom's size reminds me of Andalusia's distant groves. The 
most beautiful provinces of your Spanish realm seem here 
outdone in nature's opulence, therefore Hispaniola have 
I named it. Its people are a well-formed race, possessed 
of but little civilization but of unbounded hospitality. 
The idea of mine and thine, the seed of all mischief has 
not entered their simple minds, in a clime of perpetual 
summer and plenty, they lead a life as depicted in para- 
dise. Thus the possession of this island alone will more 
than compensate the cost of your expedition. 

QUEEN — Though well aware it is but simple truth 
your lips impart, still your narration borders well nigh 
on the marvellous and supernatural. 

COLUMBUS— T\\Q i6th of January, a favor- 
able breeze springing up for the vo3^age to 
Spain, I spread sail for home, induced by the 
leaky condition of the vessels, fearing they might 
not last if I tarried longer. Baffled by contrary 
winds we were just nearing the Azores, on the I2th of 
February, when a frightful storm broke upon us, waves 
towering mountains high, lashed by the furious gale, 
every moment threatened to engulf the caravels. In 



COLUMBUS. 9 

the night of the 15th we lost sight of the Pinta. Fear- 
ing she had foundered, the secrets of the new World 
now depended on the safety of my feeble, tempest-tossed 
bark alone. In this extremity I endeavored to propitiate 
heaven by solemn vows of penance, but still with unabated 
violence raged the tempest, until the i8th, when we cast 
anchor at the Island of St. Mary's. On the 24th we 
set sail again for Spain. On the 2nd of March my cara- 
vel was struck by another storm that rent all sails, blowing 
with resistless violence ; \ve had to scud under bare poles, 
until, on the 4th of March, we were driven into the 
Tagus, and cast anchor opposite Rastello, thanking God 
for our escape from such fearful perils. Herewith in 
your gracious Majesties' hands I place the journal re- 
counting minutely all incidents of this wonderful voy- 
age. 



QUEEN— {Sinks on her knees, lifting her hands in 
prayer, all present follow her example.) 

Almighty God, Father of Heaven and Earth, praised be 
Thy name, everlasting thanks we vouchsafe Thee, who in 
Thy wisdom and unbounded goodness hast given unto us, 
Thy true believers, new realms of great magnitude and 
wealth ; our new subjects thereof we promise to convert 
to Thy service in the true faith of the holy Catholic 
Church. Amen. 

(The Anthem Te Deum laudamus is now chanted by 
the choir of the Royal chapel, with accompaniment of in- 
struments.) Curtain, 



ic COLUMBUS. 

Act. I. Scene III. 

Queen's room in Palace Barcelona. Queen, donna 
Inez de Herera (lady in waiting). Pages. 

QUEEN — Now that the Admiral has departed for 
Seville to embark on his second voyage, I will sorely miss 
the entertainment of this great man, but will find time to 
reflect the more over his wonderful achievements. I 
anticipate much from this voyage ; many noblemen of 
distinction are in his train. I understand, dear Inez, that 
your admirer, Don Ojeda, has also enHsted. 

INEZ — Of all the brave knights of Spain he is one of 
the bravest and will give good account in the field. 

Scene IV. 
PAGE — (Announces Don Ojeda.) 
Don Ojeda craves audience of your Majesty: 

QUEEN — Admit him to our presence. Enter Ojeda 
drops on his knee and kisses the hand of the Queen. 

QUEEN— Don Ojeda, it is thoughtful of you to bid 
us farewell ere embarking for the Indies. We wish you 
the best of success; may the Saints extend a guarding 
hand over all your enterprise. God willing, we expect to 
hear great achievements of your valor. 

OJEDA— To serve }^ur Majesty to the best of my 
ability is your subject's duty, but to serv'« so august a 



COLUMBUS. II 

Queen is a pleasure that lightens the toil of the most 
hazardous enterprise. 

QUEEN — We have ere this had proof of your devo- 
tion, and trust you will acquit yourself nobly, therefore 
we dismiss you with our blessing, hoping that you will 
return crowned with glory. (Exit Queen and Pages.) 

Scene V. 
JED A— {turnmg to Donna Inez). The Queen has 
gone and yet my Queen is here, Donna Inez ! What part- 
ing cheer have you to offer me ? 

INEZ — Don Ojeda, all that her Majesty has said was 
said as coming from my heart; I wish you success. 

OJEDA — So does all Spain wish us success. Have 
you no more to say to me on the eve of my departure for 
distant climes, where I go to uphold the fame of Spanish 
chivalry, and may gain perchance some wealth and glory 
for myself, which gladly I would share with you? 

INEZ — When you return laden with wealth and glory, 
I will welcome you with joy, greater far than my parting 
words could regret impart at your going. 

OJEDA — In days gone by, in happy childhood days, 
you were wont to accept me as your knight ; there was no 
youth so bold as dare to frown on you but Ojeda brought 
him to his knees to beg your pardon. Now that I hav€ 
grown to manhood^s state, you, sweet blooming flower, on 



12 COLUMBUS. 

the verge of womanhood, still are the lady of my heart; 
may your knight not crave a parting kiss, the mem.ory 
whereof will keep him company through lonely vigils 
in the distant land? 

INEZ — 'Twere against all etiquette and breeding to 
allow such liberty, or even think of it. 

OJEDA — (Embraces and kisses her, Inez struggles to 
free herself.) I sincerely beg my lady's pardon for this 
breach of etiquette, but your servant could not refrain 
the bliss your budding lips impart. 

INEZ — / should chide you much, sir Knight, for your 
boldness, but since you acknowledge your crime, we will 
forgive and forget your fault. 

OJEDA — Never will I forget this blissful moment, 
willingly would I repeat it a thousand times in atonement. 

INEZ — You seem incorrigibly bold, 'twere well to 
end our interview. 

OJEDA — Whene'er engaged in combat, your image 
was ever uppermost in my mind, and that of the Virgin 
Mary, my patron Saint ; have you naught for me, as token 
of your constancy and faith, to cheer me on through 
dangers of deadly strife, such as ladies are wont to give 
their faithful Knights? 

INEZ — (Detaching a chain with the image of the 
Virgin from her neck.) This image of the Madonna, to 



COLUMBUS. 13 

me by my mother given, skillfully by a Flemish artist 
wrought, is said to possess great power; may it pre- 
serve you through all dangers and bring you safely home 
to the Spanish realms and to— to me! 

OJEDA—(KissQS the picture, then fastens the chain 
around his neck). Now that I feel sure of your love, I 
go contented and sure of a happy return (and he kisses 
her again, then kisses her hand to go). Adieu, my love, 
adieu ! 

INEZ— Adieu, and do not forget to bring me an 
Indian Princess dress, such as they wear on state oc- 
casions, with golden crown and all ; farewell, my knight, 
and think of me. Farewell! Exeunt. 

Act I. Scene VI. 

Room in Fonseca's Palace, Seville. 
Juan de Fonseca, Archdeacon of Seville, seated at 
table perusing documents and papers. Enter Soria. 

FONSECA — What reports have you to make, Comp- 
troller Soria? 

^QI^IA— Most reverend father, I have here the Ad- 
miral's demands for personal retinue, which seems to me 
superfluous beyond propriety and reason to allow; ten 
footmen and twenty other servants he demands, to wait 
upon his person. I have demurred to this requisition, 
but since received a letter from his Majesty that the Ad- 
miral's demands should be compHed with; your judg- 



14 COLUMBUS. 

ment, most reverend father, shall guide me, if my refusal 
was not proper. 

FONSECA — I also have received such letters from 
the Crown that resemble closely to a snub ; I trust they will 
not expedite the sailing of the fleet. Too haughty seems 
to me, by far, this Captain from Genoa ! Good Soria, you 
are enjoined to expedite the enterprise. You must use all 
haste, and yet there may be many unavoidable delays 
to vex the Admiral and subdue his overbearing spirit; 
thus will he learn that Fonseca is the Patriarch of the 
Indies; that it is better to beg for my assistance than to 
demand my service. 

SORIA — I understand your meaning and will be 
guided by the burden of your words. 

FONSECA — I have appointed Friar Boyle to guard 
the interests of the church and keep wholesome check 
upon the Admiral's selfish projects; you know all that is 
required for the service of your superiors. Exit Soria. 

Scene VII. 

FONSECA— {A\ont.) The Admiral stands high in 
favor with the Crown at present, but he will find, ere 
long, 'twere better to have courted Fonseca's favor, and 
to have shared with me some prospective profits of his 
enterprise. That Soria, I trust, understands his instruc- 
tions, and will cause some sore moments to the Ad- 
miral's haughty spirit. 



COLUMBUS. 15 

Scene VIIL 
FOiV^JSC^— Seated. (Serving brother announces 
the Admiral.) 

SERV. BROTHER— Most reverend father, the Ad- 
miral is without and asks an audience with your High- 



ness. 



FONSECA— Let him enter. (Exit serving brother.) 
Enter COLUMBUS. 

FONSECA—iRises). Worthy Admiral, what gives 
me the pleasure of your call? I should chide you for 
making such a stranger of yourself, here in my humble 
home. 

COLUMBUS— T\\Q pressure of business keeps me at 
the harbor, most reverend father. I deeply regret that I 
must now air my plaints with you, when all should run 
as smooth as the Guadalquivir. The Crown has enjomed 
the utmost speed for our expedition, for fear that Portu- 
gal's King might poach on our domain. I have exerted 
myself to the utmost, and you, I trust, are working m 
the same direction ; yet I find my movements checked, 
and frequently necessary orders countermanded by your 
Comptroller Soria; so obnoxious has he made hnnself, 
that I dislike his very sight, and wish you would entrust 
another with his missions. 

FONSECA-Dtar Admiral, I am amazed at this 
complaint, for always have I found Soria, who is of noble 



i6 COLUMBUS. 

Spanish family, a conscientious and able official who, if 
anything, is but too careful of his sovereign's interests; 
moreover he holds his patent from the Crown, and I 
could not discharge him if I would, but will enjoin him 
to defer to your wishes and treat your person with all 
due reverence. Curtain. 

Scene IX. The Harbor of Seville. 

Columbus on the deck of his caravel, his sons Diego 
and Fernando by his side, soldiers on watch pacing the 
deck, sailors loading the ships and getting ready for 
sea. 

FERNANDO COL.— I would feel so happy, father, 
to sail under your command, that I could hardly wait the 
time for going to sea, while now I dread your sailing. 

COLUMBUS— You would feel different, my boy, 
when seasickness takes hold of you, then would you wish 
yourself back on land. 

FERNANDO COL.— Oh ! never, father; trust me, I'd 
bear it bravely as befits a seaman's son. 

COLUMBUS — Bear yourself bravely in your studies 
while I am gone, then will I promise you may ship as my 
secretary on the next voyage. (Enter Soria.) 

COLUMBUS— Wd\, Mr. Comptroller, have you 
audited those bills I was particularly desirous of being 
settled ere we sail? 



COLUMBUS. ly 

SORIA — I have not yet found time to establish 
their correctness; they can wait awhile, I trust. 

COLUMBUS — The merchants were most prompt in 
their delivery. I myself can vouch for the excellence of 
the goods and correctness of the bills, so let there be no 
further delay of payment, I beg ; it would hurt our credit. 

SORIA — They'll have to wait with others, I reckon. 
The expense of this expedition has far exceeded all ex- 
pectations, with its many extravagant items, such as 
thirty servants for your own person for example. 

COLUMBUS— {^EyLciitd). Mr. Comptroller, take 
this for your answer (he strikes him in the face, Soria 
falls down). 

COULMBUS (to the guards)— Take the cur from 
out my sight (two guards seize Soria and hustle him 
down the gang plank). 

SORIA (as he is led away) — Such treatment of a 
Castilian nobleman will give you cause to think thereon 
hereafter, Mr. Admiral ; trust I'll not forget while I live ; 
I'll pay you back as my name is Soria ! 

COLUMBUS (to his sons)— My boys, the time has 
come to bid farewell; the ships are ready, a propitious 
breeze is filling their sails to take us hence (he embraces 
and kisses his sons) ; so then farewell and bear yourselves 
nobly while I am gone, that I may have a good report 



1 8 COLUMBUS. 

on my return (they leave the ship, waving- goodby from 
the dock). A happy voyage father! May fair winds 
swell your sails! 
Curtain. 



Act II. Scene I. 

House of Columbus in Isabella ; spacious room ; seated 
around large table. Columbus at head, Don Diego Co- 
lumbus at his right, Don Pietro Margarite at left, then 
Friar Boyle, Petro Coronel, Sanchez Caravajel, and Juan 
de Luxon. 

COLUMBUS — Gentlemen, I have convened you here 
tu confer with you and impart my wishes and commands, 
on the eve of my departure for further discoveries, to the 
aggrandizement of our sovereign's realms. You are aware, 
or should be, that in the present state of unrest in the 
Colony great circumspection and leniency should be used, 
as well as show of power to overawe the simple-minded 
natives; to this end we appoint our trusted General Don 
Petro Margarite commander-in-chief of all our land 
forces. You, Don Petro, are to make a campaign of ex- 
ploration to the different parts of the Island, treating, the 
natives with kindness, but making at the sam.e time a good 
show of our strength and superiority. 

MARGARITE — I understand the spirit of your order, 
and trust on your return to spread before your eyes a 
satisfactory report of the good stewardship of my com- 
mand. 

COLUMBUS — You other gentlemen I constitute a 
junta, to conduct the civil government of the Colony, 



20 COLUMBUS. 

over which my brother Diego is to preside. Our spirit- 
ual advisor, Father Boyle, we have named of the number, 
that the sanction of the Church may not be lacking in its 
councils. 

BOYLE — 'Tis well ever to consider the will and best 
wishes of the Church and its devout servants in all human 
enterprises. 

COLUMBUS — Now that we have made provision for 
all eventualities that may arise during my absence, and 
having confided the affairs of the Colony into most loyal 
hands and able, I will depart, and trust on my return to 
find the Colony in a prosperous and peaceful state. 

ALL — May a most successful voyage crown your 
efforts! Be assured that we will rule according to the 
sentiments by you imparted. 

Curtain. 

Scene II. 

Room in Father Boyle's house. Boyle and Don Petro 
Margarite. 

BOYLE — I have asked you over to my poor abode for 
a friendly chat and exchange of views before you depart 
on your campaign, and to partake a goblet of excellent 
old Sherry; there is none like it in all the Colony (he 
gets the Sherry), I would have none, either, to offer you 
now, had the Admiral's command been obeyed (they 
drink). 



COLUMBUS. 21 

MARGARITE—Thcit is, indeed, a draught well worth 
coming for; I tasted none of such quality since I left 
Spain. 

FATHER BOYLE~]ust think! The Admiral com- 
manded this to be turned in for hospital use, on top of 
curtailing our food supply, along with the common rabble. 

MARGARITE — Twere a shame to feed such wine 
to the common swine, that know no difference between 
the best and most inferior. 

BOYLE — Such also w^as my opinion, 'Tis a wine for 
nobles and divines, therefore the cask remained right in 
my cellar; let me fill your goblet again. Now, dear 
General, as our views seem to be of one accord, I feel 
curious to hear your opinion about the Admiral, and his 
ways of governing this Colony, just to see if our views 
also coincide in this respect. 

MARGARITE—Well, for a foreign Captain, who's 
only adopted, so to speak, by the Crown, he presumes too 
much command over our Spanish hidalgoes, and then 
again indulges in unwarranted leniency to the heathen 
Indians. 

BOYLE — Your thoughts are, as 't were spoken with 
my tongue ; when we do thus agree, our judgment must 
be right. When we landed on this second voyage, and 
found our colonists had been slaughtered, I counselled 
the Admiral to make an example of the Cazique, and burn 



22 COLUMBUS. 

him at the stake, but he would none of it, because he 
thought him innocent. Innocent or not, the heathen 
should have been burned, say I, as a wholesome example 
for his people, to hold in awe the power of our Church. 

MARGARITE — Let me get out with my command, 
now that the Admiral has gone. I'll make short shift 
Vv-ith the natives, if they show any signs of rebellion, nor 
will I begrudge my men the pleasures that a soldier can 
find on such an expedition. (Margarite rises.) The 
hour is getting late, I must be off to my command. What 
say you. Father Boyle, if I send you a pretty Indian 
m.aiden to do your domestic chores? Perchance you'll 
find time to convert her to the true belief, if she be apt 
and pretty. 

BOYLE — I stand in need of a good domestic, and 
trust to your judgment; may success crown your expe- 
dition. (They part.) Exeunt. 

Scene III. 
Bodega in Isabella, the Cantinero. Enter Miguel 
Diaz, Dieste, Rodriques (Cavaliers). 

MIGUEL DIAZ — Senior Cantinero, bring us some 
of your good Arragonian vintage and three goblets (they 
are seated at a table). The Cantinero brings wine. It 
seems to me a kind of cure and preventive for homesick- 
ness, here in this new world, to get a draught of the old 
home vintage. 

DIESTE — We are with you and will drink to the 



COLUMBUS. 23 

good old home while the wine will last. (They drink.) 

RODRIQUES— You are right, gentlemen; there is a 
charm in the memory of our childhood home that stays 
with us through good and ill, even to the last breath that 
we draw in foreign climes. 

Enter FIRMIN CEDO (Gov. Assayer), the Apothe- 
cary and a surgeon. 

C£DO— Cantinero, quick; a gourd of Amondilato; 
we want to drown our anger and disappointment of to- 
day's transactions in this God-forsaken town ! (They are 
seated; turning to his friends) Pernal Diaz had laid his 
plans so well, it is a crying shame that some damned 
traitor should peach to the Admiral all these well-laid 
plans, on the point of execution (Cantinero brings the 
wine and fills the goblets, Cedo Hfting his goblet). 

CEDO— Here is disaster to the Admiral and his kin, 
in good old Spanish wine ! 

(Miguel Diaz rises and walks to the table of Cedo and 
his friends). 

D//^Z— Gentlemen, the words you uttered here in 
public are treason against the Admiral ; as vizeroi of our 
King, being in his service, I must beg you to retract your 
words. 

CEDO— We'll retract nothing, all Isabella, ay! the 
whole Colony is tired of the Admiral's overbearing sway ; 



24 COLUMBUS. 

if you are a Spaniard, yourself should resent this dago's 
command. 

M. DIAZ — Firmin Cedo, I know you well, you are so 
small and mean by nature built, you have no conception 
of the Admiral's greatness; not an honest day's labor 
have you done since you came to the Colony, but breed 
dissension where you can. You must retract, or draw 
and show the metal you are made of. 

CEDO (draws) — I'll show you're but the cur of your 
master. (They fight, Diaz pierces Cedo with his sword; 
he falls in the arms of his friends and sinks to the floor). 

DIESTE — You've killed him, Diaz; quick, let us fly 
hence, for the Admiral's laws are strict against all broils, 
and single combats; though you drew in his behalf, the 
circumstances may be thus distorted that it would go hard 
with you. 

D/^Z— Better fly to some hospitable Indian hamlet 
than face the gibbet, erected here in civilization's train. 
Exeunt. 

Act. II. Scene IV. 

House of Father Boyle. 
Father Boyle. Enter Margarite. 

BOYLE — Dear General, what gives me the pleasure 
of your unexpected visit ? 



COLUMBUS. 25 

MARGARITE — Dear father, matters have gone 
contrary to all expectations. My men and self 
have indulged a little too much in the natives' 
hospitality, and then these beggars turned on us, 
hi open revolt, all over the island, so that I 
find myself unable to quell the disturbance. As 
the Admiral is now due to return, I've made up my mind 
to quit the Colony, ere his arrival, with my trusted follow- 
ers. When I get back to Spain, I have no doubt that 
my influence at court will enable me to shed the proper 
light on matters here, that will not favor the Admiral 
over much. 

BOYLE — Self-preservation is a fundamental law of 
nature; if you use your influence judiciously, it will not 
fail of bearing fruit. I myself am sick and tired of this 
place, for there is no Peters Pence worth mentioning to 
be gathered here, but privations innumerable. If you are 
willing, I'll join your party and corroborate your testi- 
mony at the court of Spain. 

MARGARITE— Then make ready with all despatch, 
for I propose to seize one or two of the caravels that the 
Admiral's brother came over in, and set sail before to- 
morrow's setting sun. The junta's commands cannot 
hmder us, with the show of strength I have at my com- 
mand. 

BOYLE — You'll find me ready at the hour, dear Gen- 
eral, for I have no more desire again to meet the Admiral 
than yourself. Exeunt, 



26 COLUMBUS. 

Act II. Scene V. 

Columbus' House in Isabella (Hayti). Bed chamber. 
Columbus sleeping, attendant watching, enter Barthol- 
omew Columbus. 

BARTHOLOMEW COLUMBUS— Is my brother 
awake ? 

ATTEND.— The Admiral still rests in profound slum- 
ber; I trust he will awaken soon. May God grant it to 
have been a healthful sleep. 

BARTHOL.— Let me sit by his bedside and watch, 
that his awakening glance may meet a loving brother's 
eye, and gladden his drooping spirit to fresh health. (Is 
seated, Columbus awakening.) 

COLUMBUS— Where am I ? Is this but a visionary 
dream, or is it sweet reality, that I behold my dear 
brother's countenance here at my side ? 

BARTHOL.—lt is a true and happy incident, that I 
am here by your side, come to aid you in your enter- 
prise. On my return to Spain I heard the happy tidings 
of your discovery, together with the news of your new 
departure for the Indies. I then made haste to sail after 
you, as speedily as ships for the voyage could be pro- 
cured ; thus it is that you find me here ready to aid you 
all I can. 

COLUMBUS— Uow that I hold your dear hand in 
mine, a calmness pervades my body that I have not felt 



COLUMBUS, 27 

for many a day. The constant vigils and cares for the 
fleet's safety on my last expedition have so worn upon me 
that both body and mind gave way under the strain, and, 
in a deathlike sleep, I lost all recollection of my coming 
here, but feel now refreshed and soon will be myself again ; 
meantime you must act in my stead until my strength re- 
turns. I shall appoint you Adelantado and will have it 
proclaimed throughout the Colony that, in strength of 
this appointment, your commands must be obeyed the 
same as mine. 

BARTHOL. — I shall strive to act in your spirit and 
will execute your orders faithfully, so pray do not excite 
yourself, and take the needed rest for your recovery. 

Act II. Scene VI. 

Night, wild woodland scenery, Ojeda sitting at a camp- 
fire watching, his comrades lay around asleep. Enter 
Migfuel Diaz. 



'&>' 



OJEDA — Who goes there? Friend or foe? 

DIAZ — A friend from good Castile, who yearns to 
hear again the sweet sound of his mother tongue, who's 
accents have not broke upon mine ear these many months. 

OJEDA — Forsooth, 'tis Diaz, my old friend, the shin- 
ing light of Salamanca's seat of learning, whom we 
deemed dead since many a day. Whence come you now ? 

DIAZ — With the Indians I made my abode, till now 
consumed by homesickness, I return to surrender for the 



2S COLUMBUS. 

killing of that wretch Firmin Cedo, bearing some in- 
formation of great value to the Admiral. I hope for 
pardon from him for my duel. 

OJEDA — I trust that such you may obtain, since 
Cedo has recovered from the wound you had inflicted. 

DIAZ — Thanks to Providence, that aids me thus in 
my distress. 

OJEDA — You should thank your patron saint for his 
kind intercession, and offer prayers of thanks to him. 

DIAZ — No saint has helped me, nor can he; there's 
no such thing in the World's economy. 'Tis but imagi- 
nation of the superstitious throng that favors such belief 
by the clergy nurtured; but the world's economy rests 
on laws eternal, is not, and could not be altered by your 
prayers or mine, or any one's, nor intercession of the 
saints, who in reality are but another myth, of no avail 
against unchangeable laws of the universe ; for we, though 
thinking ourselves of much consequence in our self-suf- 
ficiency and pride, are but like flies, or smaller insects 
yet, compared to the magnitude of the universe, as you 
should know, had you given more thought to philosophic 
study at the University than to fencing and other recrea- 
tions. 

OJEDA — 'Tis rank heresy, what you are preaching, 
but I hope you'll mend your mind when you get back to 
your Christian kin, otherwise 'twere my duty to report 



COLUMBUS. 29 

your disbelief to the Church ; for my part a fervent prayer 
and call upon my patron saint have carried me victorious 
through many a bitter fight. 

DIAZ — I doubt not but what it has helped you, not 
for the aid your saint has given, for that was none, but 
for the assurance that your belief imparted to your actions. 

OJEDA — May the Madonna protect me against here- 
tic thoughts like yours. 

DIAZ — You are on just such an expedition now that 
requires great nerve, though nature has amply supplied 
you therewith ; by prayer to your saint you'll still height- 
en its tension. May your enterprise prove successful! 
I'll leave you. Rest the few hours till dawn, for you'll 
require all your strength. T will proceed toward Isa- 
bella, ere the rising sun makes the journey laborious. 
Exit. Curtain. 

Act. II. Scene VII. 

Room in Columbus House, Columbus and his brother 
Bartholomew (the Adelantado). 

BARTHOLOMEW— Dear brother, I have good news 
to impart, and hope you will consider it the same as my- 
self. Miguel Diaz, one of the young cavaliers who came 
with me from Spain and fought a duel here with Cedo, 
has returned to implore your pardon for that act, and 
hopes it should be granted, on the strength of his discovery 
of a rich gold mine whose location he will show to any 
expedition we may send out with him. 



30 COLUMBUS, 

COLUMBUS — Pardon under these circumstances I 
feel disposed to grant, since I understand the duel was 
chiefly fought in defense of our rights and good name. 
The finding of a rich mine will help me at the court of 
Spain, where tangible returns of profit from the Colony 
are impatiently awaited. Our enemies exert their utmost 
skill to harm our enterprise, so let your cavalier appear 
before us. (Bartholomew calls Diaz). Enter Diaz, he 
advances a few steps, then drops on his knees before the 
Admiral. 

COLUMBUS — What have you to say in your behalf, 
don Miguel Diaz? 

DIAZ — Noble Admiral, I know full well it was 
against your command and law to engage in single com- 
bat, but I plead the provocation as a mitigating circum- 
stance. The wretch 'gainst whom I drew had calumni- 
ated your good name and fame ; to avenge this I struck 
him down. Fearful that in your absence no justice could 
be obtained for me, I fled to hospitable Indians who since 
have harbored me. Tis there I discovered this mine of 
rich gold bearing quartz. Mindful that you are looking 
for such a mine, I have returned to impart this informa- 
tion, and crave your pardon for my transgression, 

COLUMBUS — In consideration of Cedo's recovery 
and the good news you bring, we grant the pardon, and 
appoint you to guide the expedition which my brother, 
the Adelantado, will command. You will take your further 
orders from him. Exit Diaz. 



COLUMBUS. 31 

COLUMBUS (turning to his brother)— This discov- 
ery comes most opportune. 'Tis good news to take with 
me to Spain, where my presence is demanded. If but 
Ojeda were back with the Carib chief Caonabo captive the 
backbone of the native opposition would be broken ; then 
with Hght heart could I embark for Spain, while you 
conduct the Colonies' affairs here with judicious care. 
If no ill has befallen, Ojeda's return can hourly be ex- 
pected. (Alarm without. Enter Ojeda, Caonabo hand- 
cuffed and attendants). 

OJEDA — Honored Admiral, true to my word, I bring 
you here the Cazique Caonabo captive, that in your wis- 
dom you may deal with him as you see fit. 

COLUMBUS— Don Ojeda, we feel deeply indebted to 
your valor and sagacity. Again you prove yourself a 
most worthy knight of Spain's great realm ; we will take 
pleasure to report your achievement to his Majesty. 
(Turning to' Caonabo). We are pleased to meet you here 
in our house, and will make your stay as agreeable as 
circumstances will permit. 

CAONABO — It was Ojeda's strategem that brought 
me here, thus fettered, not my own free will. I admit 
that I am conquered ; to his superior strength and cun- 
ning I must bow,* for yourself never would have dared 
tc take me from my people as he has done. You have 
me now, to do as you list; burn me at the stake if you 
will, I shall not wince. It was I that surprised your fort 
at La Navidad and put its garrison to death, in retribu- 



32 COLUMBUS. 

tion for the many acts of licentiousness committed on our 
wives and daughters. 

COLUMBUS— My intentions are kindly, I wish to 
Hve in peace with yourself and people ; it may be well to 
send you on a visit to the King, that you will see the 
futility of opposing his power, but you need not fear 
for your personal safety, that I shall guard religiously. 



CAONABO — ^Caonabo knows no fear! 

To thy subjects be it left to tremble ! 
We received you, strangers here, 
With the open hand of friendship. 
We fed you with our bread, 
We gave you of our fruit and fish, 
We extended the hospitality of our 

houses. 
In return you betrayed our women, 
You take our gold and trinkets. 
You plant a cross, and speak of love 
Of God for man, and say you are his 

emissaries ; 
But you kill our men and women 
On the slightest provocation, though 

love you preach. 
Now you deprive me of my liberty; 
If you feel well disposed, as you say. 
Let me go back to my people, 
And I will call a truce! 



COLUMBUS, 33 

COLUMBUS — For the present you will have to stay- 
as my guest, though it may be against your will, which 
we regret profoundly. 

Curtain. 



Act. III. Scene I. 

Before Behechio's House. Behechio. Enter Ana- 
caona, her daughter and attendants. 

BEHECHIO — Welcome, dear sister, what good tid- 
ings bring you to us? 

ANACAONA — Bowed in sorrow, anguish and des- 
pair, 
I come to seek my brother's aid and 
care. 

Caonabo, my husband, captured by stratagem of the 
wily Ojeda,was taken a prisoner to Isabella, where his life 
hangs but on a slender thread. His high-strung mind, 
born to command, will brook no submission, therefore 
I fear he will fare ill at the intruders' hands. Already 
I mourn myself the widow of the great Cazique. On 
him they will avenge their loss of Navitat, which his 
pride will not allow him to disclaim. Often have I im- 
plored and warned him of the futility to cope with these 
powerful strangers, but he saw his power waning as the 
strangers gained a foothold here ; he risked his all to drive 
them off and lost. I bemoan myself his widow now, 
in despair of feminine weakness wrapped, for naught 
can I do to rescue him, nor would I ask you march for 
his liberation; it would but entail your own destruction, 
filling thus our cup of misery to overflowing. 



COLUMBUS. 35 

BEHECHI0—S3id in sooth is the news you bring, 
but be it 'ere so sad, you are welcome still the more, 
dear sister, in your brother's house, where we bid you 
make yourself at home, and reign with us over our happy 
and contented people where we have naught to fear from 
intruding strangers, being far removed from their Col- 
ony I hope ere long the smile of contentment and hap- 
piness will grace again my dear sister's beautious fea- 
tures. 

ANACAO N A— Ohlivion of my woes is all I seek; 
happiness, I fear, is far removed beyond my reach. Ex- 
eunt. 

Scene II. 
Plain in Xaraqua surrounded by tropical woods. 
Enter the Adelantado (Bartholomew Columbus) with his 
troops ; from the other side the Cazique Behechio with his 
army, armed with bows, arrows and lances; Behechio, 
perceiving the formidable array of the Spanards, lays 
down his weapons and advances amicably towards the 
Adelantado. 

BEHECHIO— I am pleased to meet my brother, the 
white Cazique from beyond the sea; that I come with so 
many armed men is not to frighten you, but I was out 
against some refractory Caziques ; now that you have 
come I bid you to be my guest. I will dismiss my men 
and despatch messengers for my sister, that she may 
help to receive and entertain you fittingly. 



36 COLUMBUS. 

AD EL ANT ADO— Your protestation of friendship 
gives me great joy, as I have come with my men to pay 
you but a friendly visit, having heard much of the beauty 
of your country, and the kindness and hospitahty of its 
people. I am come to convince myself of this report, 
hoping it to be well founded. 

BEHECHIO — What is within our feeble power to 
make your stay agreeable shall be done. I trust you 
will be satisfied with your sojourn at our court. Let us 
resume the journey ; Anacaona will be ready to receive us 
when we reach the town. Exeunt all. 

Scene III. 

Large town on the bay of Leogan. Residence of 
Behechio. Open square in front. 

Enter BARTHOLOMEW COLUMBUS, BEHE- 
CHIO, and their retinue. As they halt in the square, 30 
maidens of the Cazique's household come forth, chanting 
their Areyotes (ballads) and waving palm branches. 
We come, we come with branches green, 
Wherein the symbol of hope is seen, 
We come in merry rhythmic dance, 
We strive to merit your approving glance, 
That the white Cazique may abide and rest, 
In this our land of peace, with plenty blessed. 
After the chant they dance a ballet, at the conclu- 
sion of which they kneel before the Adelantado and 
gracefully present him the green branches. As they 
rise and withdraw comes the female Cazique, Anacaona, 



COLUMBUS. 37 

reclining on a litter borne by six Indians, wearing on 
her head a garland of red and white flowers, and wreaths 
of same around neck and arms. As she alights from the 
litter, the Adelantado steps forth to greet her, and she 
extends her hand to him, he bows and kisses it. 

ANACAONA — I am happy to meet the white Ca- 
zique from beyond the sea, the marvels of whose strength 
and power have preceded him. I perceive your manly 
beauty and noble bearing warrant the truth of this re- 
port. 

ADELANTADO— I am more than pleased to find 
favor in your eye, and make bold to say that your love- 
liness and beauty far exceed the high report 'tis given 
throughout this charming land. 

ANACAONA — Beauty and loveliness are gifts of 
nature, pleasing to the sight, nothing more, and but little 
worth if not accompanied by kindliness and richness of 
the mind, which alone can hold the love and friendship of 
a noble soul. 

ADELANTADO — I see your mind keeps pace and 
matches well your personal charms; blended thus, each 
heightens still more the charm of the other to perfec- 
tion. 

ANACAONA — You must be weary from your long 
march, and hungry, too. Let us now extend the hospi- 
tality so pleasing to the wayworn stranger. My brother 
will lead you to his house, where the repast is set, and 



3B COLUMBUS. 

when the meal is done we will provide a fitting resting 
place for yourself and men. 

BEHECHIO — Welcome, most worthy guest, to feast 
beneath my roof. 

They enter house. Curtain. 

Scene IV. 
Evening before Behechio's house. Enter Miguel 
Diaz, Caona. 

DIAZ — Beautiful maiden, why pass you thus shyly 
by disdaining to favor me with even a glance from your 
beautiful eye? 

CAONA — I was not aware of your presence, while 
going for rest to dream of the morrow's festival. 

DIAZ — The night is balmy here without, under the 
clear blue sky, inviting us to tarry ere we turn to repose ; 
sweet converse will make the rest more cheerful after, 
and may lend a worthy subject to our dreams. Your 
image will be uppermost in mine. Ah ! could I but hope 
to be remembered in your lightest dream, 'twere happi- 
ness sublime. 

CAONA — I've known you but this day. It behooves 
a maiden ill to cast her affection thus quickly on a 
stranger, though well he may appear. 

DIAZ — If I appear well to your sight, you give me 
hope, for what I appear, believe me, that I truly am, and 
never will deceive you. 



COLUMBUS. 39 

CAONA — Your hope may be well grounded, if you 
prove as good and gentle as you appear; but men are 
ever at their best if they would beguile a trusting maiden, 
but when their siege is won, behold the erstwhile atten- 
tive and obedient servitor is changed into a stern exact- 
ing master, and the poor maiden's eyes grow dim with 
sorrowing tears at such transition. 

DIAZ — Your mistrust deeply grieves my heart, where 
pure admiration reigns for you supreme, but in de- 
fense let me give the counterpart to the picture you so 
ably drew, yet not fitting me. The trusting man ap- 
proaches the youthful maiden, sweet to look upon, who 
coyly leads him on, with modest smile and gentle glance ; 
her net is cast, behold him in the meshes caught; what 
e'er he does for her to please, seems naught. The eye 
that erst so gently beamed bears a fierce, commanding 
look; if he wants peace, her wish and will no contra- 
diction brook. 

CAONA— Your picture fits as little me as I hope 
mine was not your counterpart, but now for rest I must 
depart. 

(She extends her hand, he takes it and kisses it.) 

DIAZ — May happy dreams hover o'er your ham- 
mock. 

Caona enters the house, Diaz walks to the side, picks 
up a mandolin, passes his fingers over the strings ; going 
before the lattice of her room, he sings to the mandoHn 
accompaniment. 



40 COLUMBUS. 

"Wrapped in slumbers soft and sweet, 
Evenly thy heart does throb and beat, 
Evenly thy breath does come and go, 
As tender dreams do round thee flow, 
Be they harbingers of a future bright, 
Of a happy future, bright and true, 
'Tis my good night, good night, 
Goodnight, my darling love to you!" 

CAONA (opens the lattice and throws a red rose to 
Diaz from the wreath she wore around her neck) — 
"Good night, brave knight! 
Think of me till dawn of day, 
When meet again we may." 

Exeunt. Curtain. 

Scene V. 

Room with artistically carved furniture of ebony in 
Anacaona's house. Anacaona and Adelantado. 

AN AC AON A— I lead you to this room that you 
may see, though we lack much of your knowledge and 
arts, we still possess some skill to make objects whose 
possession helps to make life comfortable. Here I spend 
miany an hour in happy solitude, thinking out those 
Areytos, such as were sung celebrating your arrival. 

ADELANTADO— li those sweet songs I heard are 
your own composition, it proves you are a poetess of 
great ability, adding thus another jewel to the crown of 
your many accomplishments. (They are seated). 



COLUMBUS. 41 

ANACAONA — Noble Adelantado, have we done 
aught to merit your displeasure? 

ADELANTADO — How come you to ask such ques- 
tion, fair Cazique, after entertaining us most royally? 

ANACAONA — Because you spoke of leaving us on 
the morrow. Why not prolong your visit, if you are 
pleased with our entertainment? For my part your com- 
pany would satisfy me forever ; the days you spent with 
us have like quickly fleeting, joyful hours passed. I 
would not wish the day to come when I should see you 
last, nor should you be anxious to depart if our enter- 
tainment is to the liking of your heart. 

AD EL ANT AD 0~l fain would stay, would stay as 
long as you would have me, if my own inclination I could 
follow, but the requirements of the Colony call me hence, 
and duty's call I must obey, though my heart rests here 
with you enchained ; my thoughts will oft revert to the 
many happy hours spent with you. 

ANACAONA — Alas! Happy were the hours while 
we held sweet converse, and I in rapt attention 
gazed upon your manly form, to learn your wishes, that 
they might be complied, ere even uttered. The days 
passed swiftly by, light-winged messengers of time, never 
to return, like yourself. I cannot bear the thought of 
parting ; could I but hold you, all the coming days in hap- 
piness should pass soft and swiftly by, even as the last 
with joy replete. Rather than let you go hence alone I 
will accompany you to the Colony, 



42 COLUMBUS. 

ADELANTADO—Swttt lady, it is but for a short 
while I take leave, ere many moons have passed I will be 
back to worship at your shrine. 

ANACAONA — Though disconsolate at your going, 
with the faithful promise of an early return I will let you 
now depart, hoping soon to see you back and appease my 
longing heart. 

Scene VI. 

Court at fortress of Conception. 
Miguel Balester (commander) Roldan, Alcade Major. 

BALLESTER — Alcalde Roldan, I am empowered by 
the Admiral to impart the measure of his great leniency. 
He is willing to forget and forgive your former rebellion, 
to grant pardon and oblivion of the past, on condition 
that you return immediately to duty at Isabella, and writ- 
ten assurance of your personal safety will be given if 
required by you. 

ROLDAN — I have not come to treat for peace and 
pardon, but to demand the release of certain Indians cap- 
tured, to be exported as slaves to Spain, whom in virtue 
of my office as Alcalde Major I feel pledged to protect, 
The Admiral offers such magnanimous terms because he 
well knows the esteem the Colonists hold me in. They 
look to me to guide their actions. At my behest the last 
vestige of his power would vanish since he lost all prestige 
at the court of Spain. 



COLUMBUS. 43 

BALLESTER—Rold^n, remember 'twas the Admiral 
who advanced you to the high position of Alcalde Major. 
Ingratitude is the wrong coin to pay his kindness with, 
like a counterfeit coin it comes back for redemption when 
you can least afford it. Ingratitude worse than an over- 
due note stands against your account, even to the hour 
of death. 

ROLDAN—l hold the Admiral in great esteem. It 
is the Adelantado's harsh administration that Spanish 
hidalgos could not brook, and ere we return in allegiance 
to the Crown, I must be reinstated in my office of Alcalde 
Major, the Admiral must deed to myself and followers, 
such as do not choose to return to Spain, for their ser- 
vices in place of royal pay, sufficient grants of land and 
slaves to work the same. 

BALLESTER—Tht Admiral's terms are more than 
fair. You, as a transgressor, should feel grateful to re- 
ceive such lenity, in place of asking terms like a con- 
queror, since you have plainly violated your duty as a 
public servant by disregarding the Admiral's commands, 
and inciting both Spaniards and Indians to rebellion by 
your counsel and action. For the common good and your 
own reputation I entreat you to accept the Admiral's 
terms, to insure peace to the Colony. 

ROLDAN— My terms I can and will not alter. Kind- 
ly impart them to the Admiral and let his answer be 
indicted to Conception, where I will abide the coming 
week. Thanking you for your kind intercession, I bid 
you now farewell, my most venerable friend. Exeunt. 



44 COLUMBUS. 

Scene VII. 

Columbus House (Columbus and Adelantado) 

COLUMBUS — Sad, indeed, is the commander's lot, 
who deals with a rebellious host! The letter here of 
Ballester contains Roldan's conditions of capitulation. 
They are hard and insolent beyond endurance! Yet, sur- 
rounded by treachery as we are, and with no support 
from the court of Spain, I feel compelled to accept these 
bitter terms. 

ADELANTADO — You get a taste yourself now, of 
the insolence heaped upon me while holding command 
during your absence ; then they pretended 'twas my au- 
thority they could not brook, while in reality they want 
tC' revel in licentiousness, envious of all authority that 
stays their greed and lustful impulse. Now the only 
way out is to temporize, when the rebels are in such ma- 
jority that the good and loyal dare hardly show their 
honest countenance for fear of being hooted. 

COLUMBUS— The safety of the Colony demands ac- 
ceptance on my part. With the document I will send a 
letter to Roldan, appealing to his better nature. If he 
has any instinct of honor left, he must see the mischief 
his action brings upon the Colony, and if appeal to honor 
be of no avail, I may perchance tickle so his vanity to help 
our cause, for many men, though they to honor's call be 
deaf, to vanity still will give a patient hearing. 

ADELANTADO— 'Th best now to temporize, 



COLUMBUS. 45 

though were we in position to follow my inclination, with 
swift justice would I overtake Roldan and his rebellious 
crew. Alas! they know the most unjust complaints find 
a most willing ear with the wily Bishop Fonseca, the mis- 
placed Patriarch of the Indies, who throws all possible 
obstacles to success in our way. 

'Tis now too late, but ere you sailed on your second 
voyage you should have given a pecuniary interest to the 
Bishop in this enterprise, then would all have run smooth 
for you as a machine on well-oiled wheels. 

COLUMBUS — My mind was free from thoughts so 
base, that an ecclesiastic of such high standing would 
stoop to mercenary devices, which suspicion now seems 
verified by his actions. Curtain. 



Act IV. Scene I. 

Before the Church of Isabella. 

Bobadilla and his followers (heralds, trumpeters, sol- 
diers and sailors), Don Diego Columbus and populace. 

BOBADILLA — Herald, proclaim and read the patent 
of his royal Majesty of Spain! 

Herald (blast of trumpets, reads proclamation). We, 
Ferdinand, King, by the grace of God, do hereby appoint 
Francisco de Bobadilla governor of the Islands of the 
Indies and of Terra Firma, with full civil and criminal 
jurisdiction. It is our will, that if the said commander 
Francisco de Bobadilla thinks it necessary for our ser- 
vice and the purposes of justice, he commands Columbus, 
the Admiral of the Ocean sea, to deliver into his hands 
and surrender unto him all fortresses, ships, houses, arms, 
ammunition and all other royal property ; we further de- 
cree, that his refusal will subject him to the same penal- 
ties as when demanded by his sovereigns in person. 

BOBADILLA — Good people of Isabella, you have 
heard the royal patent read ; I will now take the oath of 
office in your presence. 

I, Francisco de Bobadilla, do solemnly swear that I 
will administer the office, to me by royal patent granted, 
to the best of my ability, in the interest of the Crown of 
Spain and his Majesty the King, so help me God! In 
virtue of my office, just assumed, bound by my oath, I 
now demand of you, Don Diego Columbus, to deliver into 



COLUMBUS. 47 

my hands the keys of the fortress, and all other royal 
property in your charge and keeping. 

DIEGO COLUMBUS— I hold command here by my 
brother's orders, who, as Viceroy of the Indies, holds 
letters patent of the highest order. I feel constrained to 
abide by his decision, ere I deliver aught placed in my 
trust without his sanction. 

BOB ADILL A— Good people of Isabella ! I will now 
read you another mandate of the Crown, dated the 30th 
of May. It commands the Admiral to pay the arrears of 
those to whom he is accountable from his own means 
(shouts of approval from the multitude). 

BOBADILLA—RtvdAd, this letter here from our 
gracious sovereign to the Admiral, citing him before us, 
I charge thee to deliver unto him. (Herald takes letter 
and exit). 

BOBADILLA—iTnvnmg to Diego Columbus) 
Again, in virtue of our office, I demand the keys of the 
fortress and all property of the Crown. 

DIEGO COLUMBUS— In all due deference to your 
letters patent, my answer still must be the same as be- 
fore — I must await the Admiral's orders. 

BOBADILLA — Good people of Isabella, you have 
heard the refusal of Don Diego to deliver to us the prop- 
erty of the Crown. I call upon you now, as faithful sub- 
jects of King Ferdinand, assist me, his duly appointed 



48 COLUMBUS. 

Governor, by force of arms to take the fortress and pris- 
oners there confined ! In the name of the King our sov- 
ereign forward march! To the sound of trumpets and 
shouts of the pubhc. Exeunt all. 
Scene II. Beautiful Woodland Scenery in Xaragua. 
Miguel Diaz — Caona. 

DIAZ — With longing heart have I pined to meet 
again my beautiful Indian flower. Life was dreary, un- 
worthy of existence, lacking the smile of your beaming 
countenance. 

CAONA— 
With this rose from my bosom I'll adorn your manly 

breast, 
Though fain I do envy it such exquisite place of rest. 
You dear bad man, how could so long you stay away, 
When I pined for the sound of your voice from day to 

day? 
Oft with eager eye I scanned the distant plain, 
And still my search for you was all in vain, 
But, now that I have you by my side, 
Again the world is beautiful and bright; 
Sorrow and care I cast to the howling wind — 
Rapturous joy is wafted to me on zephyrs kind. 

DIAZ— 

You are so kind, so beautiful, so good, 
Enough to shame the angels in their kindest mood. 
Whate're of love you say and feel for me, 
That tenfold yet increased, I tender thee; 



COLUMBUS. 49 

I ask but thee to be forever truly mine, 
As from the first I ever have been thine. 

CAONA— 

Happiness subHme does truly reign, 

Where each believes one's self in highest gain. 

DIAZ — To thy mother we'll repair, acquaint her with 
the plighting of our troth, that she may sanction our 
union. 

CAONA — My mother, I know, thinks well of you, 
for never you gave her cause to think otherwise ; but 
now I know you will chide me for what I want to say, 
simple girl that I am. I have a dread of your priests ; 
you'll want our union blessed by one of them 
who preach that your God is a God of Love, but still 
persecute us with fire and sword if we do, in our ignor- 
ance, what they think is not just right. That, it seems 
to me, shows not love, nor is it kind. 

DIAZ — I am not much to ceremony given; yours suits 
me as well as ours, 'tis but ceremony! The true matter 
is the love we hold, the one for the other, without that no 
ceremony will he binding, but with the true love we hold 
and cherish, our happiness will ever last until we perish. 

CAONA. — I am so happy that you bear thus leniently 
with my ignorance. 

DIAZ — Your so-called ignorance, dear child, or sim- 
plicity, rather, bears the germ of wisdom, for 'tis a fact, 



50 COLUMBUS. 

known to the well informed, that the church, intended to 
preach love and brotherhood amongst the human kind, 
and illustrate it by example, has degenerated to a gigan- 
tic trust, that exploits the credulous for its own benefit. 

CAONA — Why do you allow such things, when you 
know 'tis wrong? 

Your words are messengers of thought, 

What knowledge you possess, you should impart. 

DIAZ — I am but one in a multitude, too weak against 
the greater power; my opposition would only harm me 
and not help the ignorant multitude, who would not even 
believe the truths I speak. 

For ignorance easily is by ignorance fed. 
While to propagate wisdom and truth requires 
A courageous, clear and clever head ; 
But let us to your mother to acquaint her with our 

desires. Exeunt. 
Scene III. Room in Anacaona's House. 
Anacaona. Enter Diaz and Coana. 

CAONA— 

Here mother I bring him at last. 
After waiting till all patience was past. 
He bears some news, to you sorrowful in a way, 
Yet I'll rejoice over it, and be happy the livelong 
day. 

ANACAONA — How can my daughter be happy over 
aught that brings sorrow to her mother? I look to you, 
Don Diaz, for the solution of this enigma. 



COLUMBUS. 51 

DIAZ— Caona means you will feel sorrowful at losing 
her. while she rejoices in the possession of a man who 
adores her. That he by this transition also becomes your 
son, is but of minor consequence to counterbalance your 
loss (he drops on one knee before Anacaona). I beseech 
you, most noble mother of the loveliest daughter, to be- 
stow your blessing on our union, for either of us would 
be miserable without the other, while together we will be 
a pair of happy, loving children to our venerable mother. 

ANACAONA— Don Diaz, of all the cavaliers that 
have abided with us in Xaragua, I have found you 
one of the noblest, and since my daughter's choice has 
fallen on you, my blessing goes with it. 

CAONA— And think, my mother dear, Diaz is willing 
to have the nuptials performed in our ancient way. He 
compels me not to face his sombre priests and their sor- 
cery, but will celebrate in the happy way of olden times. 

DIAZ— 

And then we'll spend the honeymoon. 

Where first we met at the beautiful bay of Leogan, 

Where the soft tints of the azure sky 

With deep blue ocean in beauty vie. Exeunt. 

Scene IV. In Front of the Fortress of Isabella. 

Bobadilla and armed guards. Enter Columbus. 

COLUMBUS— In obedience to the royal letter of 
credence signed by the Sovereigns, and delivered to me at 
Fort Conception, I appear before you, Don Bobadilla, to 



52 COLUMBUS. 

answer for my stewardship and government of these Is- 
lands, trusting you will find, under the trying circum- 
stances surrounding me, I have acquitted myself as well 
as could be expected. 

BOBADILLA — Since my arrival here I have heard 
such ill reports from all trustworthy sources regarding 
the severity of your government in reference to the Span- 
ish hidalgos, that I deem it best for the interest of the 
Crown and the peace of the Colony to arrest you on the 
spot and send you in irons to Spain, there to have 
legal proceedings conducted against you. (The guards 
look perplexed). 

COLUMBUS — Such surely cannot be your order, to 
pass judgment against me on vague and malicious rumors, 
without hearing the evidence in my favor which, I assure 
you, will give ample proof to convince you of my inno- 
cence. I make bold before God and my sovereign, to 
prove a full justification of all acts during my administra- 
tion, if you will but take the evidence of the most trust- 
worthy witnesses of highest standing in the Colony. 

BOBADILLA — Guards, adjust the chains and march 
the prisoner within the fortress. 

COLUMBUS — I bow in obedience to my Sovereigns' 
will, expressed by you, his Governor; but time, that at 
last sets all things even, will convince the King of the 
monstrous wrong now being perpetrated upon me, and in 
confidence I look for restitution of my rights at the Sov- 
ereigns' hands. Exit with guards. 



COLUMBUS. 53 

Scene V. 

COLUMBUS — Alone in prison cell (in chains). 
Thus helpless am I stranded ! 
Such in sooth is a Monarch's gratitude! 
Kings at times bestow a golden chain 
Upon a faithful and deserving subject; 
My achievements and services to his Majesty, 
Being far beyond the ordinary, he has deigned to decor- 
ate me 
With chains, chains weightier by far and more massive 
Than commonly on favored courtiers are bestowed. 
To bring new empire to his realm exceeding far, 
Whatever he has possessed before, must be rewarded 
With such heavy chains of steel. 
In truth not quite convenient for ordinary wear; 
They cut into the flesh, down to the very bones. 
A thankful Sovereign's gift, 
To compensate for years of ceaseless toil, 
And risk of life and health in his behalf. 
Perchance there's more to come ? Ay ! Be it death ! 
Still Columbus's name shall live, 
While human records will endure, 
When Ferdinand's lineage is forgotten, 
Or in history remembered only, the very essence of in- 
gratitude ! 
Columbus's name, in many centuries yet to come, 
Will be blessed, in the new world both and old ! 

Scene VI. Enter Alonzo de Villejo with guards. 



54 COLUMBUS. 

VILLEJO — Noble Admiral, I am ordered to call for 
you. Please make ready to follow. 

COLUMBUS— {UomniuWy) Villejo, whither are 
you taking me ? 

VILLEJO — To the ship, your Excellency, to embark 
for Spain. 

COLUMBUS (Earnestly) To embark! To embark! 
Villejo, do you speak the truth? 

VILLEJO — By the life of your Excellency, it is tru*^ ! 

COLUMBUS — With these words of yours I feel com- 
forted, as one restored from death to life, for when you 
entered in this dungeon here with the guards, I deemed 
it was to conduct me to the scaffold, for so violent are 
the passions now let loose against me, that I feared to be 
sacrificed, without being heard, and my name would go 
down to posterity, sullied and dishonored, but your as- 
surance lets me follow with a lighter heart. Exeunt. 

Scene VII. 

The caravel at sea, Columbus on deck in chains. 
Villejo, the master of the caravel and sailors. 

VILLEJO — Noble Admiral, we feel deeply grieved 
at the ignominious treatment you were subjected to at the 
hands of your enemies, but now upon the open sea, where 
by right of your exalted ability you hold command, we 
will be happy to relieve you of your shackles. 



COLUMBUS. 55 

COLUMBUS— ^2iy\ Nay! Good Don Villejo, not 
so! I appreciate full well your kindness of heart, and 
the feeling of justice that animates your actions; but their 
Majesties commanded me by letter to submit to whatever 
Bobadilla should order in their name. By their authority 
he has put upon me these chains ; I will wear them until 
they shall order them to be taken off, and I will preserve 
them afterward as relics and memorials of the reward for 
my services, and will request in my will that when I die 
they shall be buried with me ; for the slanders of worth- 
less men have done me more injury, than all my services 
have brought me gain. 

VILLEJO— I fain would relieve you of the burden, 
but if you thus decree your Excellency's wish and will is 
our command. Curtain. 

Scene VIII. 
Town in Xaragua. Open square before Anacaona's 
house. Anacaona, Caziques, dancing and singing girls, 
Indian populace. Enter Ovando and his army. (Ana- 
caona advances to Ovando). 

ANACAONA— Wiih due loyalty we greet you, Gov- 
ernor Ovando, and bid you welcome to our town, where 
we have set apart the best and largest house for your 
abode, trusting that naught shall mar the pleasure of your 
visit, which we hope will be of long duration. 

OVANDO— For friendly visit have I come, to ar- 



«»rt 



56 COLUMBUS. 

range about the tribute due to our Crown, and trust we 
will adjust the matter to our satisfaction. 

AN AC AON A — You will find the same integrity and 
loyalty does govern our conduct now as we have prac- 
ticed heretofore. I will now call my maidens forth to 
sing to you a fitting Areyota and perform a joyful dance 
to celebrate your visit here. (She motions to the girls 
of her retinue; they come forward, waving palm 
branches and singing). 

Welcome in Xaragua! We greet you, Welcome, 
Here, where all in peace and happiness dwell and 

roam, 
Friendship's boughs we offer, green and bright, 
Accept, we pray, these emblems with spirit right 
That together White and Indian race. 
Harmoniously may dwell in every place. 
(After the song the girls perform their dance and, bow- 
ing, place the branches at Ovando's feet, then retire.) 

VAN DO — Your Areyotos and dances are quite 
pleasing to the ear and eye, therefore it is but fitting 
that we should reciprocate by performing one of our 
jousts and tilting matches for your entertainment on the 
morrow. 

CAZIQUES— Why not let us witness the display 
right now? You have your men right handy here. 

ANACAONA — We are most anxious now to see the 



COLUMBUS. 57 

performance, since we know your men are adepts in the 
arts of war. The play would give a crowning glory to 
this joyful day. 

OVANDO — If you so desire let the Caziques retire to 
the house, whence they can see the performance. I will 
make all necessary preparation. (The Caziques enter 
the house) . 

OVANDO — (To his lieutenants) Have you prepared 
your men, and are you ready for the execution of my 
commands ? 

LIEUTENANTS— We await your command as 
agreed. 

OVANDO — Diego Velasquez, with your command 
surround the house ; upon the trumpet's call enter and let 
no one escape. You others fall upon the populace, and 
spare no man, nor child until all opposition ceases. 

Velasquez marches his men, surrounding the house. 
Ovando steps forward, laying his hand on the cross of 
Alcantara embroidered on his breast. At this signal a 
trumpet is sounded, Velasequez enters the house with 
his men, binds the Caziques to the posts of the house, 
sets fire to the building and leads out Anacaona tied 
with thongs, the rest of the Spainards fall upon the pop- 
ulace and massacre all that do not flee. Curtain. 

Scene IX. 
Ruins of burned house. Enter as before Anacaona bound, 



58 COLUMBUS. 

guards. Singing of Te Deum is heard as troops march 
off. 

AN AC AON A — The charred remains of burned hu- 
man bodies, protruding from under the smoldering 
ruins of our houses, exposed now to the bleaching sun of 
day, cry out to heaven for justice and retribution; while 
the black clothed priests, with song and prayer endeavor 
to deceive their God about the monstrous wrong they have 
committed. 

The noble Caziques, who entertained the strangers 
here with inborn hospitality, dreaming of no ill, were 
paid for their kindness with death by fire and untold tor- 
ture. The best of our race are being slaughtered, but a 
day of retribution must and will come, when our op- 
pressors and their children meet like fate. Kindness and 
justice are homeless strangers now upon this earth, like 
myself, the proud Cazique, who a captive slave is taken to 
Isabella, jeered at by the rabble, where I should have 
entered in state cheered by the multitude. 
My days are declining, my sun is setting, be it so, 
A brighter sun I see arising, o'er my country's fate, 
When in justice and right the Almighty spirit great, 
Heavily will lay his redeeming mighty avenging hand 
On the strangers who persecute us with sword and brand. 
Then happiness and liberty again will come 
To every honest, good and humble home. Finis. 



mi 



10 1905 



